It’s not often that dozens of the nation’s top homebuilders agree on a common business partner, especially one with a highly consequential impact on closings.
These builders understand the value of having an accurate insurance quote even before the house is built. They know that early confirmation of insurance availability and cost means more transparency and confidence for both buyer and seller.
That mutual peace of mind comes with something else: A top-rated service extra that endures long after the last closing document is signed.
Brand-Building Plus
Dave Stallcup embodies that value-added dimension as a customer service representative for Westwood Insurance Agency, a leader in embedded home insurance for homebuilders. The 25-year industry veteran is one of 60 U.S.-based service professionals that top builders trust for their integrity, plain talk, and service commitment.
That focus couldn’t come at a better time. With concerns mounting about insurance availability and cost, Westwood and the 50-plus carriers it represents offer solutions for home builders and buyers seeking greater closing certainty.
“I answer all questions related to homeowners insurance policies,” says Stallcup. “Homeowners want to make sure their dwelling coverage is sufficient, their premium reasonable, and, of course, prompt help when filing a claim.”
The Power of White Glove Service
That kind of white glove service cannot be underestimated. Embedded, transparent home insurance at the contract signing is only part of the story. Post-sale, platinum-grade customer service is essential too. That’s why many top builders rely on veteran insurance professionals like Stallcup to indirectly support their brand long after the closing.
What should you look for in an insurance agency partner? Ben Sokoll, vice president of customer support for Westwood, suggests builders consider four ideas:
- Top-Rated Service. “Very often, the call to file a major claim is one of the worst days in that customer’s life,” says Sokoll. “Action, speed, and empathy mean a lot to our customers, so builders should work with an insurance agency partner that patiently and compassionately walks them through all the steps.” Many insurance agencies may claim top-rated service. Sokoll says it’s advisable to ask about the agency’s net promoter score, a respected third-party rating system. Westwood, for example, posted a 2024 NPS of 92+.
- Continuous Value. Demonstrating ongoing value is the heart of brand building. Periodic insurance reviews are a helpful, service-oriented way to reinforce customer value. Personal property coverage is a good example. “It’s not unusual for a household to be over-insured for personal property,” Sokoll reports. A policy review can uncover hundreds of dollars in annual insurance savings. Sokoll suggests working with an insurance agency that routinely offers to review home insurance coverage.
- Bundled Savings. Bundling auto, flood, and umbrella liability insurance through a single agency represents savings. Linking insurance value to other aspects of your home buyer’s lifestyle can only help brand development.
- Multiple Carriers. It’s smart to have a backup carrier or two these days. Policies can be non-renewed and premiums can sharply fluctuate. Sokoll says Westwood works with 50-plus carriers ensuring there’s always a quality Plan B if the need arises.
You invest considerable resources in building a brand name defined by quality, service and value. Isn’t it time you consider extending those qualities beyond the closing just like so many other top builders have done?
Learn more about how to enhance your brand and win long-term customer satisfaction with Westwood Insurance Agency.
